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Remington Traditional School’s Tiger Troupe performing arts club is celebrating its milestone fifth year with a performance of the “Lion King Jr.” and a first for the club - being able to perform on stage at the Pattonville High School community auditorium. The free, one-night performance takes place on April 13 at 6:30 p.m.

“It’s a real theater experience for the kids, with professional lights and sound,” said paraprofessional and club sponsor Jen Schmidt. “I’m so excited to be there and for the kids to get to have this experience.”

The larger space is extra helpful because, this year, there are about 50 students performing. Schmidt never puts a cap on involvement because she wants all students who are interested to have the chance to participate. To help finance the performance, Schmidt organizes fund-raisers, like pizza nights, and also relies on support from the community. Last spring, the Remington PTO donated enough funds to cover the cost of the show royalties and video license. In addition to staff and parents, a few high school students also volunteered to help with the art and painting process for the sets. Schmidt has received costume and prop donations from groups such as the Ignite Theatre Company and the DaySpring School of the Arts. She even enlists the help of her daughter for choreography.

“Community help is key. The families and staff here are so helpful and supportive,” Schmidt said. “We couldn’t do anything near this big without the parents. It takes everyone to do a show. We are a family. It’s amazing to see it all come together. I am very proud of how hard these students are working on this show.”

The cast practices for up to two hours every Monday and Friday after school for about five months. Students are also expected to practice their lines, songs and choreography at home.